Horsemen Voice Protest Over Hollypark’s Plans

A 1 p.m. post time every day, no Friday night racing and no simulcasting of harness and quarter horse races with live thoroughbred racing at the upcoming spring-summer meeting that begins at Hollywood Park on April 29.

That was the position of some 250 owners and trainers who attended an open meeting of the California Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Assn. after the races Wednesday night at Santa Anita.

When it applies for a license at the California Horse Racing Board meeting Friday in Emeryville, Hollywood Park is expected to ask for three different post times, 13 weeks of Friday night racing and the authority to simulcast harness races (from Sacramento) and quarter horse races (from Los Alamitos) during the Friday night thoroughbred programs.

Many trainers, including Gary Jones, Darrell Vienna, John Russell and Marion Smith, spoke of their displeasure over Hollywood Park’s proposals. The wishes of CHBPA members will be presented to the racing board at the Friday meeting.